There are many different career paths you can choose when looking to enter the engineering field. In this article, we will be discussing some of the key reasons why you might want to consider a career in engineering. We will also provide you with some of the most common types of engineer jobs and what qualifications are needed for those positions.
What Is Engineering?
Engineering is the process of creating designs and solutions to problems using mathematics, physics, and chemistry. In a nutshell, engineering is all about taking complex ideas and turning them into something tangible. This can involve anything from designing a new car engine to building a skyscraper.
The benefits of choosing engineering as a career are vast. Starting out as an engineer can give you a unique perspective on the world. You’ll learn how to think critically and solve problems efficiently. Plus, you’ll enjoy a high level of job security, due to the current shortage of engineers in the market. Finally, if you have the passion for engineering, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
What Are The Different Fields of Engineering?
There are a lot of different fields of engineering, but what sets them apart is their focus. Some engineers focus on creating products or devices, while others focus on solving problems. Regardless of the focus, all engineers use some form of mathematics and science to solve problems.
One of the most popular fields of engineering is mechanical engineering. Mechanical engineers design and create machines and devices that move or function in a physical way. They may work with materials such as metals and plastics to create objects that work efficiently. Other popular fields of engineering include electrical engineering, civil engineering, and chemical engineering. Each field has its own set of challenges and rewards, so it’s important to research which one would be the best fit for you.
Why Choose Engineering As a Career?
Choosing to study engineering may seem like a daunting task, but the field has many opportunities for growth and satisfaction. Here are five reasons to choose this career:
1. The Field of Engineering is Growing Rapidly
The demand for engineers is constantly on the rise, which means there are plenty of opportunities for advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of engineers is projected to grow by about 19 percent from 2014-2024.
2. You Can Be Highly Productive in Engineering
Engineers are some of the most productive workers in the world. According to Payscale, engineers with at least five years of experience earn an average salary of $97,000 annually. Additionally, engineers typically have an extremely high degree of job satisfaction.
3. Engineering Majors Offer a Variety of Careers Paths
There are a variety of available engineering careers, which gives you more flexibility in your career path. You can work as a research engineer developing new products or designs, or you could work in production engineering ensuring that products meet manufacturing specifications.
4. You Can Earn a Huge Amount of Money as an Engineer
According to Payscale, the average salary for an engineer with at least five years.
What Are The Different Types of Engineering Jobs?
There are many different types of engineering jobs, and each one can have its own set of benefits and challenges. Here are a few examples:
Computer and Information Technology Engineering: This job field involves designing, creating, and maintaining computer systems. Typical duties may include developing software, troubleshooting hardware problems, and creating databases.
Mechanical Engineering: This field specializes in the design, construction, and operation of machines and equipment. Duties may include creating prototypes, designing manufacturing processes, and troubleshooting malfunctions.
Electrical Engineering: This field is responsible for the design, development, manufacture, installation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical systems. Activities may include designing circuits and components, calculating voltages and currents, installing wiring systems, and testing equipment.
What are the Qualifications for an Engineering Degree?
There are a lot of engineering degrees to choose from, but what are the qualifications for one?
In order to become an engineer, you need to have a degree in engineering. However, not all degrees are created equal. You’ll want to make sure that the degree you choose is accredited by the ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
ABET accredits programs that have met certain standards, including:
– Faculty must have a minimum of a doctoral degree in engineering
– The program must be accredited by an accrediting agency that is recognized by ABET
– The program must have been in operation for at least two years
After you’ve chosen your degree, you’ll need to pass an accredited engineering exam. The National Board of Accreditation (NBOA) offers four exams covering subjects like mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and control systems. You can find more information about these exams on the NBOA website.
Once you’ve passed your exams and met all of the requirements for your degree, it’s time to start poring over job postings!
How Much Do Engineers Make?
Engineers are in high demand and can earn a lot of money. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineers earned a median wage of $86,060 in 2016. The highest-paid 10 percent earned over $130,590, while the lowest-paid 10 percent made less than $59,440.
Conclusion
Engineering is one of the most versatile and in-demand fields today. Whether you want to work on large projects or specialize in a specific area, engineering has something for everyone. With so many options available, it’s important to choose a career that you are passionate about and can see yourself working in for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about your chosen career path, don’t hesitate to reach out to an advisor at your school or local professional society.